Would you upgrade scope base screws from 6-48's to 8-40's?

[PaulB84]

If I'm building out a lightweight rifle (not ultralight, but let's say 8-9 lbs ready to shoot) in a high(ish) power caliber (300/338/7mm) would you preemptively upgrade the optic mount screws to avoid potential shearing problems, or am I overthinking this?

 

[gbflyer]

If I'm building out a lightweight rifle (not ultralight, but let's say 8-9 lbs ready to shoot) in a high(ish) power caliber (300/338/7mm) would you preemptively upgrade the optic mount screws to avoid potential shearing problems, or am I overthinking this?

I would consider what sort of scope when making a decision. If it’s a big 30oz job it might be a good idea. I think during the time of size 6 screws the scopes were much smaller.

 

[PaulB84]

Sorry I meant to say that the optic would yes be on the chunky side. 25-30oz probably

I would consider what sort of scope when making a decision. If it’s a big 30oz job it might be a good idea. I think during the time of size 6 screws the scopes were much smaller.

 

[TaperPin]

I’m also in the middle of deciding if upgrading screws on a few old receivers is worth it.

Prior to the trend of #8 screws we did just fine with smaller screws, but scopes were lighter back then. The larger screw adds something like 35% more clamping force, which is needed less if you glue down the base. It’s a simple upgrade with no downside.

I’ll probably just glue down any bases and call it good.

 

[PaulB84]

I'm pretty enamored with one piece base and ring combos. I'm running the Talley's and Leupold Backcountry on several guns. Keeps everything nice and low and light, and feels like one less tolerance stacking. But for a forever gun, especially one I would like to take out west that if it fails in some way will cost me a tremendous amount of time and money and heartache, im not sure if it's as robust as traditional base and rings

Upgrading the screws in that situation. Felt like a smart play, although I suppose there's nothing stopping me from gluing those down as well, but I had not thought of that until now

 

[tjmitchell]

Do it, it’s cheap insurance and the smith can handle it while he’s working on the action.All of mine get the works.